How Often Should Asbestos Surveys Take Place In Devon?

Asbestos can be a harmful and dangerous material present in many buildings, including residential and commercial properties. It is known to cause health complications such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Asbestos was widely used in the construction industry till the 1980s, which is why it is essential to have an asbestos survey undertaken in order to identify any asbestos present in the building. However, the question arises, how often should asbestos surveys take place in Devon?

Understanding Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral composed of thin, long fibers. It was commonly used in construction materials due to its durability, heat resistance, and excellent insulation properties. However, exposure to asbestos fibers can result in severe health problems, making it essential to take measures to prevent exposure.

When asbestos particles are inhaled, they can become trapped in the lungs, leading to diseases such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma.

There are different levels of risk in dealing with asbestos depending on the type of asbestos and the condition of the material. Asbestos can be classified into two main types: friable and non-friable.

Friable asbestos is commonly found in poorly maintained insulation or sprayed coatings. These materials can easily break down, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Consequently, individuals in close contact with friable asbestos may be at higher risk of exposure.

Non-friable asbestos is a type of asbestos that does not easily break down or release fibers. It is typically found in hard materials such as asbestos cement sheets, and the risk of exposure is much lower.

The Importance of Asbestos Surveys

The presence of asbestos in buildings is a hazard both for those who use the building and those who work on the building. Asbestos surveys help identify the presence, location, and amount of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) in a building. Ensuring the identification of ACMs reduces the potential for exposure, thus reducing the risk of related health problems.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires that all non-domestic properties are subject to an asbestos management survey. The requirement for a survey was introduced to ensure that building owners and managers take appropriate steps to identify and manage ACMs within their properties.

The regulations require that the asbestos management survey is undertaken as the building occupier, and the results should be reviewed annually. This process is known as the asbestos management plan, and it is a legal requirement for all non-domestic properties.

A management survey is a non-intrusive survey designed to identify ACMs that are likely to be damaged or disturbed during routine occupancy of a building. Management surveys can also identify areas where there is a suspicion of ACMs, which can then be further investigated using more intrusive techniques.

When is an Asbestos Demolition Survey Required?

Demolition surveys are required when building works will result in the complete or partial demolition of the building. The survey is essential to identify the presence of ACMs within the building that could be disturbed during demolition works.

The survey identifies all ACMs that could be damaged or disturbed during demolition works. A demolition survey should be carried out before any demolition work begins, as it can identify any hazardous materials like asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials.

How Often Should Asbestos Surveys Take Place in Devon?

Asbestos surveys must be conducted on a regular basis to ensure that the asbestos risk is monitored and managed effectively. The recommended frequency of asbestos surveys varies depending on several factors, including the type of building, its age, and its previous use.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 does not specify how often asbestos surveys should be conducted. However, several factors can influence the frequency of asbestos surveys, including:

• The age of the building - Older buildings are more likely to contain ACMs than newer buildings, so regular asbestos surveys may be necessary.
• The previous use of the building - Buildings previously used as industrial or commercial buildings are more likely to contain ACMs.
• Changes to the building - Any changes or refurbishment works could potentially disturb ACMs, making regular surveys necessary.
• The condition of the building - Buildings that have deteriorated require more regular surveys to ensure the safe management of asbestos-containing materials.

Generally, a management survey should be carried out at least once every three years or after any structural changes that may have affected the building's asbestos risk.

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon

Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon is a professional asbestos survey company in Devon. We are committed to providing our customers with expert asbestos survey services. Our team of professionals is qualified and experienced in dealing with all types of asbestos materials.

We offer a range of asbestos survey services designed to meet the individual requirements of our clients. Our services include asbestos management surveys, asbestos demolition surveys, and asbestos reinspection surveys.

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon, we understand the importance of regular asbestos surveys. Our services are designed to ensure that our clients comply with all relevant legislation and regulations while ensuring the safety and well-being of their employees and building occupants.

Contact Us

If you're looking for a professional asbestos survey company in Devon, look no further than Affordable Asbestos Removal Devon. Call us today at 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected] to book your asbestos survey. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-devon.co.uk to learn more about our services.